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GREEK CITIES AND GREEK ISLANDS
ABOUT IOS
Ios is principally one of the islands, which has been identified with the meaning of entertainment and the vivid rhythms of life that its visitors live and enjoy. Centre of attraction mostly for young ages (but not only), consists the choice for many people who want to combine their holidays with intense moments of entertainment and unique memories.

Among all the Cyclades islands, Ios has been for many years the one most loved by young people of all ages. And rightly so, since it combines all the ingredients of a Greek island that one would dream of. Well known as the island where the great poet Homer died, Ios is the place where beauty and culture meet party people from all around the world.

The Ionians came and settled to the island in 1050 B.C. A version about the origin of the island's name claims that it derives from the name of the Ionians, but this doesn't seem to be valid linguistically, because in such case the name would be "Ionia" or "Ionis". According to another version, the name derives from the Phoenician word "ion", meaning "a heap of stones". This version doesn't seem valid either, as we know that the Phoenicians had inhabited places that were much rockier than Ios. Finally, according to the prevailing version, Ios took its name from the violets (Greek "ion") that fill its countryside each spring. The island has been related with the death of the poet Homer, creating a myth that in the course of the centuries turned into a tradition.

Until Ios came under Frankish rule, it suffered a lot from the pirate raids, as its natural harbour was a sheltered anchorage for all ships. At that time, whenever the islanders saw a foreign ship in the port, they would barricade themselves in the castle, sending the oldest women of the island to the port. If they came back, then everything would be all right. If not, then they would have to prepare for battle. In 1204 Ios was occupied by the Crusaders, and up to the 15th century it was ruled by the noble family of Crispi, forming part of the Duchy of Naxos. The Crispi rebuilt the castle on the ruins of the old one to protect the island from the pirates. But in 1537, Hairedin Barbarossa, the Turkish pirate, occupied the Duchy of Naxos, together with Ios. The final liberation came with the incorporation of Ios in the modern Greek State, which was founded by the signature of the protocol of London on the 10th of March 1829.

The most significant local feasts celebrated during summer are: On the 24th of June and on the 2nd of August, the feast of St. John Prodromos at the monastery of Pyrgos, on the highest spot of the island.

On the 29th of August, St. John's is celebrated in two parts of the island, in Kalamos and Psathi. Each year on this date, hundreds of pilgrims attend vespers, taste the meat soup served in wooden dishes ("skoutelia") and dance to island music all night through.

Located in Cyclades, Greece Ios is only accessible by boats since Ios does not have an airport. Most people choose to fly directly to Athens or Santorini and from there take the ferry to Ios. Boats and Ferries mainly depart from Piraeus port in Athens (Greece biggest port) from and to Ios.

Climate
The warmest month are July and August, with average temperatures of 28 degrees Celsius the day time.
However, a prevailing north, north east wind brings some fresh air and cools you down. In winter time it is and 10-18 degrees Celsius.

During spring Ios is much greener, almost beyond recognition in comparison to summer period.

General Information Ios is the ultimate party island, this is the paradise for youngsters from all over, eager to party all night and sleep half the day.

Ios is a pretty, but harsh island with quite a few things to do and see, but because of the very young audience, many "mature" travellers prefer not to come here. Which is a shame, since you can enjoy large, empty beaches before noon, when all the "clubbers" are fast asleep.

The people on Ios live mainly off the tourism, and partly off agriculture and fishing. For them, the island's reputation is something of a dilemma. On the one hand the young holidaymakers provide an important source of income, but on the other hand the island has become a bit too commercialised, and the locals are quite disgusted by the behaviour of the young tourists.

Ios History The island's earliest inhabitants were probably some Pelasgian tribe, since almost all islands beginning with and "I" usually are. This is not for certain though.

In the 2nd Millennium the Minoans were most likely here, and in the 8th century the Dorians got a foothold on the island. Local tradition has it that Homer died here, and the remains of his tomb can still be seen.

The Venetians ruled the island in the 13th to 17th century with Naxos as the capital of the Dutchy. The Turks then invaded, and Ios was not liberated until the 19th century.

In the 1960's the island was discovered by hippies from all over the world, and every now and again they still turn up. This is partly the reason why it is such a party island today.

What to See The island's pride is the tomb of Homer, which basically is just a pile of stones. It is difficult to find, but if you manage to locate it it does tickle the fantasy. Local legend has it that he wanted to be buried on Ios since his mother was from here.

There are a few interesting churches on the island as well, but most visitors like to go to the monastery of St. John (Ag Ioannis). castle.

What to Do : Well, apart from the obvious, partying, there is always water sports, snorkeling, diving, beach volley etc. Anything to do with beach life.

Ios Beaches There are quite a few beaches. Most popular are Mylopotas beach, Yialos and Koubaras, where many go skinny dipping. If you can, rent a moped and try to find your own spot if you don't like large crowds.

Nightlife: Ios is overcrowded with bars and clubs, and the rhythm is high all through the night. Most places are in Chora, but there are also beach parties going on. Because of its young audience, you'll soon realize that most bars are for late teenagers, with loud music and drinking competitions.

Food-On Ios grapes are grown, so you should try some of the local wine. Other-wise you can get international food as well as Greek. Beware of the too touristy looking taverns though since the quality is not always the best.

Shopping: In Chora you can get almost anything: from copies of ancient statues to beachwear and jewellery. Because of the late nights, many shop owners choose to stay open until early morning, hoping that the "happy" clubbers will buy something extra.

Getting Around There are quite good bus connections, and you can also rent a vehicle, as well as boats that will take you to different beaches.

Getting There : Since Ios does not have an airport, most people choose to fly directly to Naxos, Mykonos or Paros and from there take the ferry boat. The island is also connected with Athens.

Facts about Ios Ios Phone numbers
Size: 110 sq. km International code: 0030
Airport: No Local code: 22860
Cashmachine: Yes Health Center Doctor: 91227
Internet cafe: Yes Coast guard:
Population: about 1800 Port Police: 91264
Price rate: Average.